Beirut: President Joseph Aoun affirmed to a delegation from the "Bekaa Development and Belonging Gathering" that work is underway to strengthen the state's development presence in the Bekaa in line with the region's needs and importance. He cited key projects including the Beirut-Bekaa route, the Arab Highway, the Lebanese University complex, and efforts to protect and rehabilitate the Litani River and its course.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Aoun said the main objectives of negotiations had been clearly defined: sparing Lebanon the consequences of war and protecting its sovereignty, stability, and national interests. He stressed his openness to "every option and course that could help achieve these objectives, because the priority is to protect Lebanon and its people."

The president also underlined that Lebanon can confront its current challenges only through national unity and internal solidarity. He praised Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri's remarks marking the anniversary of the disappearance of Imam Musa al-Sadr, particularly his emphasis on civil peace, support for the Lebanese Army, and adherence to the Taif Agreement as "red lines."

"Lebanon has many opportunities ahead," Aoun said. "What matters is that we do not squander them through narrow calculations, and that we learn from the past and draw its lessons in order to build a better future."